We all know that given the world we live in, gluten is nearly as prevalent as the air we breathe. It’s everywhere, including maybe some of the prescription-issued and OTC medicines we use. And when the GF-free question is asked of the doctor or pharmacist, not always is an accurate answer immediate, although the need for the medicine is. This question of gluten free excipients, which are the inert substances used in drugs, can also apply to eye contacts and contact solutions.
Presently, there are no regulations – state or federal – that require medicine manufactures to list gluten ingredients in their drugs or products, but the The Food and Drug Administration recognizes the need for such labeling and has issued a $50,000 grant to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness to conduct scientific research into gluten in medication; the study is titled Gluten in Medication.
NFCA will be joined in the study by experts in the field who will be examining both prescription and OTC drugs, and will consult with people who are on a gluten free diet who have expressed adverse affects when taking specific medications.
Scientific research began in November, 2011, and questionnaires are due to be sent out in early 2012 to the gluten free community seeking their input which will all be factored into the mix before recommendations are suggested to the FDA.
For more information you may contact NFCA at www.celiaccentral.org.
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